Simba face Transfer Hurdles: Elie Mpanzu Deal Stalls, Willy Onana Recalled.

By Seth Mapoli , The Guardian
Published at 06:00 AM Jul 17 2024
Elie Mpanzu
Photo: Agencies
Elie Mpanzu

Simba sports Club, is currently navigating a complex transfer situation involving Congolese winger Elie Mpanzu. Despite initial agreements, the deal has hit a snag due to intervention from AS Vita Club’s influential figures. This has led to uncertainty about Mpanzu’s future at Simba sc.

Elie Mpanzu had initially agreed to a two-year contract with Simba SC. However, complications arose when key stakeholders at AS Vita, including a new wealthy investor, intervened. The investors demanded a hefty transfer fee exceeding $250,000 to release Mpanzu, stalling the deal.

The msimbaz based side made several attempts to finalize the transfer, sending representatives to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on two occasions. These included efforts by Salim Abdallah, known as ‘Try Again,’ to negotiate terms. Despite these efforts, the situation remains unresolved.

In light of the complications with Mpanzu, Simba SC has decided to recall winger Willy Onana. Initially, the club had planned to release Onana, who had been staying in Cameroon. However, the stalled Mpanzu deal prompted a reconsideration, leading to Onana’s return to Tanzania for further discussions.

Onana, who was signed last season after being named the MVP of the Rwanda Premier League, is expected to join the team’s camp in Ismailia, Egypt, after receiving new instructions from Simba’s leadership.

While Onana’s future at Simba is being reconsidered, the club has decided to part ways with midfielder Aubin Kramo. Kramo, who was injured shortly after joining Simba last season, has not played a single match due to his injuries. According to Simba Board of Directors member Cresentius Magoli, the club is cautious about retaining Kramo due to concerns over his fitness and long-term viability.

“Kramo was injured during the pre-season period and has not played all year. We are afraid that he may not meet expectations if he returns, which could lead to a long-term loss,” said Magoli. The club is currently negotiating whether to send Kramo out on loan or terminate his contract.

Kramo himself confirmed his departure, expressing his gratitude to Simba fans and hinting at a potential return in the future. “I will not play for Simba next season. I love the fans of Simba, and God willing, we will meet again,” said Kramo.

Amidst these changes, Simba SC is bolstering its squad with the signing of Nigerian winger Jonathan Alukwu from Sporting Lagos. The 21-year-old, capable of playing on both the left and right wings, has signed a two-year contract with Simba.

Alukwu is expected to arrive in Tanzania soon to complete his visa arrangements and other formalities before joining his new teammates in Egypt. An inside source at Simba confirmed that Alukwu’s arrival is part of the club’s strategy to build a long-term team. “He left his village for the city to come to Tanzania and should be arriving soon,” said the source.

Newly appointed head coach Fadlu Davids is overseeing the club’s pre-season preparations in Egypt. Davids, who has been involved in the registration process, is keen on integrating new players and building a cohesive team.

In a recent interview from the clubs social media platforms, Davids discussed his approach to training, emphasizing the importance of mental and physical readiness. “I started by building them up mentally. The goal is for each player to focus on the tasks ahead. Physical training will follow, and I will provide them with other training programs,” said Davids.

As Simba SC navigates these transfer challenges and adjustments, the club remains focused on assembling a competitive squad for the upcoming season. The ongoing negotiations and new signings highlight Simba’s determination to strengthen their team and achieve their ambitions.